A US introduction for the performance catamaran
Polish builder Sunreef Yachts plans a US show debut for its Ultima 55 at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The 16.6-metre power catamaran has already been shown elsewhere, so the American event is a regional introduction rather than a global launch.
The Ultima 55 is constructed at Sunreef's facility in Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. Its design brings together a relatively sporty twin-hull format and accommodation intended for family holidays, two characteristics that are not always combined at this scale.
Fold-out sides transform the stern
The catamaran incorporates fold-down bulwark platforms on both sides of the aft cockpit. When deployed at anchor they expand the available space by the water, creating a setting for swimming, relaxing and informal entertaining.
The quoted width grows from approximately 5.6 metres to 7.6 metres with the platforms deployed. Those figures describe the change in usable deck configuration, not a guarantee that the yacht can berth with the platforms open. The manufacturer's operating limits must always be followed.
A saloon linked to the cockpit
Large windows and sliding doors connect the main-deck saloon with the aft entertaining zone, creating a flow between sheltered dining and outdoor seating. The model is intended to accommodate guests who may have different preferences for sun or weather protection.
Sunreef offers customisation of finishes, furniture and layouts, so an owner can adjust the atmosphere without assuming every sistership has an identical interior. The practical test is how the chosen furniture works when several guests are moving between cooking, dining and lounging.
Three or four cabins
The published standard plan provides three cabins for six guests, with a private owner's cabin, a further double and a bunk cabin. A four-cabin layout can increase the sleeping capacity to eight guests, while separate accommodation is provided for up to two crew.
The decision affects privacy and storage, not merely passenger capacity. Couples making extended voyages may value fewer, larger cabins, while families with children or groups of friends may prefer the fourth sleeping compartment.
Foil-assisted hull and IPS propulsion
Sunreef uses a foil-assisted twin-hull design, adding hydrodynamic lift while the boat remains in contact with the water. In the published twin Volvo Penta D8-IPS800 configuration, rated at 600 horsepower each, the manufacturer reports a top speed of about 36 knots.
A lower-powered twin D6-IPS650 arrangement is also described. Neither a quoted maximum speed nor a foil system establishes a particular operating cost, so buyers should examine measured fuel use, service access and behaviour in their intended conditions.
Range depends on operating configuration
The specification cited for the higher-powered configuration includes approximately 240 nautical miles at 20 knots. The builder also offers options involving hybrid propulsion and solar charging, which can significantly change system complexity and energy use.
Buyers should not treat a single performance figure as universal for every boat or loading condition. Additional equipment, passenger numbers, weather and the reserve maintained all influence realistic passage planning.
A different choice beside larger cruising cats
At Fort Lauderdale, the Ultima 55 can be compared with accommodation-led power catamarans such as Aquila's 54 Yacht. The Sunreef puts greater emphasis on speed and the expandable outdoor stern, while other designs may provide a broader conventional cruising platform.
This is a useful distinction for a buyer considering whether the yacht will spend more time making fast short passages or staying at anchor. The best choice follows real cruising habits rather than the largest published deck area.
Inspect the details in Florida
The Fort Lauderdale show runs from 28 October to 1 November 2026, allowing visitors to investigate the model before asking dealers for a precise specification. Sunreef has not said that all options or individual delivery slots are represented by the displayed yacht.
Prospective purchasers should obtain written pricing, warranty coverage, engineering specifications and sea-trial opportunities. The purpose of an in-water presentation is to turn design claims into something that can be examined and questioned.
